Indonesia, Java - Stop Off In Nganjuk

The day was too long, and too hot, to remember exactly how far out from Malang we rode. Up and down hills, long stretches of open shadeless roads that disappear into the forested horizon, I sometimes get jealous of the large and cool air-conditioned executive suite buses that overtake my lane on the right.

Several hours and km in to the ride my head began to thump rhythmically with a hot pressure. As we sat resting a few moments over freshly blended apple and avocado drinks, a debate continued on between us. As we drank, as the thumping got louder, I knew it was heat exhaustion. We pondered and schemed options to somehow make this day our first 200km day. Alas, it was not meant to be. I had to get off the road and rest, so we spent the night in the small off the map town of Nganjuk. However, a healthy hour nap later in a dark room in a shady hotel and I was back on my feet.

Like most other small towns, it is the little things that distinguish this place from the others. Like this broken sink at the hotel that we stayed at. Big cities have enough KFCs and Pizza Huts to resemble one another. It's hit or miss at most hotels; some have free breakfast, free WiFi Internet, others do not yet cost just the same. Some have clean linen and free amenities, others make you wish they did.

We have here a picture of a buffet meal that I really took advantage of. First time to eat good in a long while. Lots of rice, lots of veggies, lots of eggs, lots of chicken and beef. Seafood is something we'll get into more as we move along closer to the Southern coast.

Chris contemplates the risk and liabilities of buying Indonesian fireworks partly encased in a metal cage.

Then a spectacular view over lunch. Captivating; I hardly looked down at my food as I ate.

Next, we rested our bikes together in front of a nasi pecel shop. A traditional meal of rice, vegetables, a sort of peanut crisp, and flavoring sauce served in a folded banana leaf. It's where the locals eat, and so of course, where we ate as well. Thirty cents if you're keeping track.

It's easy to forget about these smaller, quieter towns that accommodate a quick night's rest before darting off at first light. Thanks for everything Nganjuk, we'll call you.